Head to the Bar
“Bar” in Poland does not mean your local dive. It stands for bar mleczny, or “milk bar”, which are cafeteria-style restaurants you’ll find all over the country, serving delicious, homey, Polish food. They arose during the Soviet era as government subsidized lunch counters, where people could get an affordable meal. Now privately owned, the idea is still the same today, and bar mleczny are some of the best places to grab a satisfying, casual Polish meal. You’ll see plenty of lunch counters open for sniadania and obiad (breakfast and lunch). Simply search for a sign that says “bar”!
Find a table at the inn
If you’re seeking more of a leisurely dining experience. Look for Karczma and Gospoda. These translate to “inn” and are most commonly a sit-down restaurant where you can enjoy a full-menu, gourmet, Polish meal. Polish cuisine is hearty fare. You’ll want to go all-in, so bring your biggest appetite! Start with a soup, end with a sweet-treat, fill in the middle with yummy Polish entrees and of course, wash it down with a glass of piwo or wino. One of my favorites is potato pancake topped with goulash. It can be called a couple different names, look for “Placki Ziemniaczane po…” on the menu. Do some research, or ask your server for recommendations on regional specialties!